Begin this Colombia journey tour on the Caribbean coast, in Cartagena de Indias. Then, continue on to the lush mountain slopes and valleys of the Coffee Triangle. Colombia is an amazing land of contrasts and after being off the wish list for many travelers for some years, it is rapidly becoming one of the highlights of South America. With its rich cultural history, amazing architecture, geographical diversity and the simple warmth and hospitality of its people, it’s easy to see why this fascinating country is becoming an increasingly popular spot for overseas visitors.

Highlights of the tour itinerary include the lively Old City of Cartagena, the pulsating energy of Medellín, and the diversity and allure lush mountains & valleys of the Coffee Triangle. You would fly back to Bogota for your international flight out. Throughout you’ll experience the best service from bilingual professional guides, to drivers, hosts and from Latin Excursions staff as we help you plan your trip from start to finish, customizing details to match your travel preferences.

If you’re looking for: Travel to a South American destination that’s been off the map for many travelers for years, vibrant & exciting cities, beautiful lush mountain landscapes, insight into coffee growing, a colorful colonial city on the Caribbean, and lively local culture.

Extend your trip: To Tayrona National Park for several days after visiting Cartagena – it’s ideal for beach relaxation and jungle hikes.

Highlights:
• Insider access to special experiences in Cartagena de Indias
• Colorful Old City of Cartagena
• Special culinary experience at a luxury hacienda in coffee country
• Visit and support a musical foundation which will touch your heart
• Hiking in national parks

Day 1 – Cartagena de Indias
After a meet and greet at the international airport, transfer with your guide to your hotel. There are direct flights between Miami and Cartagena via Avianca Airlines and from Miami on American airlines. Located on the Caribbean coast of Colombia, Cartagena is a colonial gem. Enjoy warm breezes & sultry Caribbean rhthyms in the colorful Old City. Narrow streets are lined with colorful buildings dating to the 16th century, balconies overflowing with bougainvillea. Numerous plazas are delightful places to to enjoy an afternoon café, and there are stands for tasty local juices on every corner. Transfer to your hotel, located in the colonial sector of the city. Overnight at Ananda or similar
No meals included.

Day 2 – Cartagena Walking Tour
Start with a panoramic view of the city from the Monasterio and Iglesia de La Popa. Constructed in 1606 this church and monastery are located at a height of 140masl from where one can enjoy 360º views of the city and the sea as well as the port zone, one of the most important in the Caribbean. Continue to the San Felipe fortress. It was built on San Lázaro hill to defend the city from pirate attacks. Then, go on to the Ciudad Vieja (old city) to visit the Convert and Church of the San Pedro Claver compound, which was built in the middle of the 17th century and owes its name to the “apóstol de los esclavos.” Lastly, end the tour in the handicrafts zone of the Bovedas, a collection of archways built into the city wall of Cartagena and that were used until the end of the 1700s to house armaments and then later as a prison in the 19th century. Nowadays, it’s an artisan center to appreciate local handicrafts.
Breakfast included.Overnight at Ananda or similar

Day 3 – Day at Leisure in Cartagena
Enjoy a day at leisure to explore the winding streets of the Old City of Cartagena.

Day 4 – Medellin
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel this morning, before your transfer to the airport for your flight to Medellin.
Transfer to your hotel, located in the upscale Zona Rosa, with tree-lined streets filled with top restaurants & boutiques.

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel, and then transfer to the airport for your flight to Medellín. Transfer to your hotel, located in the upscale Zona Rosa, with tree-lined streets filled with top restaurants & boutiques.
Medellín, once home to a notorious drug cartel, has engineered a remarkable turnaround in the past decade. Currently the second largest city in Colombia, it’s regarded as one of the most important centers for business, politics, fashion and nightlife, and is now one of the safest cities in South America. Medellín is vibrant, contemporary and well worth a visit for its vast selection fine restaurants, bars, and if nothing else, its people. The Paisa, a person from this region, is well known for his or her sense of pride and also the way they look. To sit at a coffee shop or bar and watch the people of Medellín walk by can easily take up a morning!
Breakfast included.

Day 5 – Medellín City Highlights Tour

Medellín is a city with a colorful history: from the city’s valiant founding fathers trekking across the Andes, through to the dark days of drug cartels, up to its more recent rebirth as one of South America’s most vibrant & progressive. The city tour will take in all principal sites and locations of this fascinating location, including Parque Berrio, where sculptures by famous Medellín-born sculptor Fernando Botero are exhibited; a ride on the city’s famous metro and cable car system for fantastic views of the city; and a visit to the Antioquia Museum. After lunch, transfer to airport to take flight to Manizales” . Overnight at Casa Normandia.

Day 6 – Coffee Culture Experience & Manizales Tour
The coffee region for many people is the heart and soul of Colombia – its cultural epicenter. With every turn, a spectacular panorama changes your perspective, from the rolling hillsides of fertile coffee plantations to plunging valleys and bold elevations. Coffee makes this region tick; it’s the heart and soul of the region and its culture.

Enjoy a short panoramic tour of the city of Manizales, before heading to Hacienda Venecia for a coffee plantation tour. You’ll have a chance to see the whole process, from coffee seedling to coffee cup, and every part in between. You will learn about the trials and tribulations that face the regions coffee growers and how their whole way of life is affected by this simple bean. From the planting to the picking to the toasting and the tasting your life as a coffee drinker will never be the same once you have tasted the elixir of life from Colombia. The experience at Venecia will involve walking through the plantation as well as a home cooked lunch.
All meals included.

Day 7 – Cocora Valley
This tour will take you from the far northeast of Quindío to the town of Filandia, and then onto the beautiful Valle Cocora where the magnificent wax palm grows.

Filandia’s main square has not changed in appearance or in character in decades; enjoy a coffee break in one of the many small cafes and take in the quaintness of brightly painted houses in this traditional regional town. From Filandia you will drive to the Cocora Valley. Part of the wider Parque Nacional Los Nevados, the valley is located on the eastern limits of Quindío along the central Andean range. The valley has a unique landscape like a lush version of a Swiss valley. It has been regarded by Colombia as a sanctuary for its national symbol: the Wax Palm. The valley is spectacular and great for walking or horseback rides; either way this stunning mountain scenery will not fail to impress.

This evening will be spent at an hacienda in Quindío, surrounded by lush gardens and plantain plantations, with views of the surrounding mountains.
Overnight at Bambusa Hacienda

Breakfast & lunch included.

Days 8 & 9 – Hacienda Leisure Days
Enjoy time at leisure at your hacienda – hiking to viewpoints over the valley, relaxing by the pool or on the verandah, or with a massage or horseback ride in the area. The area is truly a paradise and a wonderful place to end your Colombian adventure.Overnight at Bambusa Hacienda
Breakfast included.

Day 10 – Departure for Home
Transfer to the airport today for your direct flight home. There are direct flights between Armenia and Fort Lauderdale; otherwise, there are international connections through Bogotá
Breakfast included.

From: US$ 3,200 per person, depending on accommodations; excludes domestic & international airfare.

The hotel has a prime location in the heart of the bustling Old City. Just a few blocks from its door you’ll find the cathedral, Santo Domingo Square, Inquisition Palace, along with boutiques, galleries & restaurants.

With just 23 suites, Ananda is able to offer its guests a balance between personalized service & an intimate feel, with plenty of style & amenities. Suite categories are luxury, Deluxe & Superior Junior Suites, each carefully restored to provide a mixture of the elegant colonial style of the original building and a light and airy design. Suites are spacious, and depending on the category, can offer a balcony, Jacuzzi bath, private terrace, or sitting room.

Within the hotel you’ll find a stunning outdoor pool, perfect for escaping the afternoon Caribbean heat, along with a terrace & Jacuzzi for cool evenings.

There is a restaurant featuring Mediterranean cuisine, along with 24-hour room service, and a bar/lounge.

The Old City is a 20-minute drive from Cartagena’s airport, which has convenient flights connecting throughout Colombia, and direct flights on Avianca to Miami.

Ideal if you are a couple, enjoy a trendy style, prefer a smaller hotel over many amenities.
Not Ideal for families with young children, a traditional style, or the amenities of a larger hotel.

The Hacienda is built of local bamboo and adobe, constructed in the traditional Spanish style around an open courtyard accentuated with sprawling outward balconies strung with comfortable hammocks from which to soak up the idyllic views while being lulled to sleep by the calls of exotic birds flittering amongst the tropical foliage. Plush white couches on which to relax are scattered around the interior and colorful artwork adorns the walls.

With only nine rooms, each unique, visitors to Hacienda Bambusa feel like valued house guests. Families are more than welcome.

The 250+ acres that belong to Bambusa are actively cultivated with fields of banana, plantain, cacao, orange, coffee, pineapple and herds of white Brahman cattle. The majority of ingredients in the local dishes are produced organically via sustainable practices onsite.

Hacienda Bambusa is an ideal place to relax and explore, with miles of hiking and biking trails crisscrossing the property. Bambusa also makes an ideal base from which to explore the Zona Cafetera (the Coffee Triangle) and coffee plantations. The Valle de Cocora is a short drive away and an ideal place for a hike or horseback ride amongst the towering wax palms and cloud forest.

The charming villages of Salento, Filandia, Pijao and San Alberto are great places to stroll amongst colorful colonial architectures, shop for local handicrafts and continually enjoy the hospitality of cups of coffee with the friendly locals.

Hacienda Bambusa is only a 15 minute drive from the Armenia airport (AXM) which is served by frequent daily flights to and from Bogotá (30 minutes) providing onward connections to Cartagena, Medellín, Santa Marta and points international. The Armenia airport also receives weekly direct flights from Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Ideal for families; couples, nature lovers, enjoying relaxation in beautiful
Not ideal for travelers who prefer lots of amenities, those looking for nightlife & access to restaurants and shopping

Why Hacienda Bambusa?

• We are far from the main road and other inhabited areas. In other words, Bambusa is a place to rest, this is the intention of our clients. The entry drive to the Hacienda is over 4 kilometers from a secondary road, making our guests feel they are getting deep into the heart of the country.
• Hacienda Bambusa is a true working hacienda, cultivating products not found elsewhere and only available to our guests: the largest cacao plantation in the region from which we will begin to produce chocolate as of next year, ginger (also a new crop in our country, and it is an export produce), bananas, 4,000 tangerine trees and a herd of 170 Cebu Brahman cattle.
• Our hacienda protects 55 acres of native forests with large extensions of our indigenous guadua (Bamboo). Flora and fauna: over 150 bird species, more than 15 mammal species which include: otters, puma jaguarundy (small cat), sloaths, crab-eater foxes, howler monkeys (a small group of 5), armadillos, etc.
• The best restaurant of the region manages our restaurant service, with most of the raw ingredients grown organically and sustainability on the hacienda : www.bakkho.com
• Spacious and comfortable rooms with sprung mattresses, 500 count cotton sheets, Lóccitane amenities, all with private balconies and ranging area of 45-540 square feet (inclusive of balconies).
• Bambusa arranges unique tailor made excursions for guests due to the lack of a local operator that can meet the level of service it’s guests are seeking. Most hotels in the region, and incoming DMCs, rely on a third party in the area to run the excursions for their guests, and everyone other hacienda provides the identical menu of options which are far from a tailor made experience.
• Support to the foundation ‘Luz a Salento’ which is a place where kids from Salento learn to play a musical instrument and receive english and french lessons as part of an initiative to keep kids off the streets. Geographic Expeditions has made the first contribution for this project through Bambusa and our aim is to be able to link more international aid foundations to support this project.

The Finch Bay Eco Hotel, located on Santa Cruz Island, has received worldwide recognition due to their multiple attractions and services. The hotel was built using natural, environmentally friendly materials; it has direct access to the beach, a great pool and exterior Jacuzzi. It takes advantage of the natural light with large windows, uses solar panels for energy and has an efficient ecological system for waste disposal. The hotel has its own desalinization plant for a permanent supply of pure water.

Its fabulous location allows for a variety of activities like diving, bird watching, sea kayaking, hikes, mountain bike rides, tours of the bay, yacht outings to nearby islands and more. Its outstanding service is provided by carefully trained staff, all of whom are inhabitants of the island.
Finch Bay Eco Hotel offers three-, four- and seven-night packages starting Sunday and Wednesday, year round.

The charming Finch Bay – named after the famous Darwin’s Finches abundant in the surroundings – is just steps from the beach on a private seaside location, surrounded by mangroves. Here guests can cherish the privacy, natural surroundings and superb service offered by the Finch Bay.

Located on Santa Cruz Island at Punta Estrada, across the bay from the town of Puerto Ayora, it is situated in a quiet location, with only pedestrian and bicycle circulation – there are no cars in the neighborhood.

Finch Bay accommodates offers guests the option of 21 garden view rooms, or six ocean view suites, each with private facilities, air conditioning and unlimited water supply.

Finch Bay is only used for 3, 4 & 7 night packages:

4 Day/3 Night Adventure – Sunday to Wednesday

This program starts at US$ 2,087 per person, including round trip flights from the Galapagos, Galapagos National Park fees, and all-inclusive program.

5 Day/4 Night Adventure – Wednesday to Sunday

This program starts at US$ 2,632 per person, including round trip flights from the Galapagos, Galapagos National Park fees, and all-inclusive program.

8 Day/7 Night Adventure – Wednesday to Wednesday or Sunday to Sunday

This is one of the most comprehensive land-based programs offered at Finch Bay, with trips to South Plazas, Santa Fe, North Seymour & Bartolome Islands. Guests will also visit the Highlands and Charles Darwin Station, hike at Tortuga Bay, and have a free day to arrange activities like hiking, SCUBA, kayaking, more snorkeling, or relaxation. This program starts at US$ 3,753 per person, including round trip flights from the Galapagos, Galapagos National Park fees, and all-inclusive program.

This small island is full of fascinating wildlife, at sea side and along the cliffs: sea lions, land iguanas, swallow-tailed gulls, Opuntia cacti and vegetation that changes colors with the seasons.

With time more luxury properties are being built, and expanded, in San Pedro de Atacama, Awasi continues to focus on staying small, in order to provide travelers with the most personalized services to be found anywhere. This focus on ultra-high quality personalized service was definitively recognized in November 2011 when Awasi became the only lodge in San Pedro de Atacama, and only the second in Chile, to be incorporated as a member of the prestigious Relais & Chateaux, a global fellowship of individually owned and operated luxury hotels and restaurants.

Our Lodge was built with local material; stone, adobe, wood and thatch. The attention to detail, and authenticity used in the construction of the lodge is further manifested through the experiences it provides travelers. In order to explore the splendors of the Atacama Desert as they wish, when they wish, guests in each of the eight suites are provided their very own 4◊4 jeep and expert local guide for the duration of their stay. Excursions can be done by jeep, on foot, by bike or on horseback without restrictions. There are no pre-set schedules, no limitations, no pre-fabrication and every act is 100% personalized and authentic: lodging, gastronomy and excursions.

Why Awasi?

• Only hotel in South America with a 4×4 jeep and a  personal tour guide for
each suite. we customize our guests excursions.
• All of our services are private.
• Only 8 suites of at least 60 m2 and private patio with a reading armchair,
outdoor shower and a solarium.
• Restaurant is exclusive to our guests. our chef Juan Pablo adapts the menu
to our guests needs and desires.
• We guarantee tailor-made experiences. prior to arrival we ask our guests
to fill out a questionnaire. the form provides vital information that will
allow us to cater a truly tailor-made experience.
• Featured in more than 400 publications, such as Conde Nast, travel &
leisure, gourmet traveller among others.
• Awarded as best boutique hotel for 2 consecutive years, by L.A.T.A. (latin
american travel association).
• Nominee for best of the best in family programs by virtuoso 2010.

Titilaka Lodge, offers a modern all inclusive experience lodge on a remote peninsula on the Peruvian shores of Lake Titicaca, offers a luxurious refuge from which to explore the treasured natural, cultural and historical resources of this mystical region. Surrounded by stunning scenery and pristine geography, Titilaka’s contemporary design and comfort integrates with the natural environment.

The architectural concept of this Lodge is closely linked to a special place positioned starkly between water, mountains and sky. The hotel is not only a welcoming lodge full of contemporary comforts and caring services, but a place designed to integrate with the environment and pay homage, if you wish, to the cultures of Lake Titicaca.

Titilaka is also a unique place with spectacular views which inspire each visitor to contemplate, explore and enjoy a sense of peaceful isolation and primeval beauty. At 12,500 feet above sea level, we are just that much closer to the sky. The three-story lodge offers 18 lake-view rooms facing Taquile and Amantani islands to the north; the Bolivian Cordillera Real to the East, along with Lake Titicaca which stretches to the East and West. At the northern tip of the peninsula is the dock, departure point for local and excursion boats. 



The hotel uses hydroelectric power, natural gas, sources local produce and employs mostly local workers. Interpreters are focused on promoting conservation practices, accentuating local traditions, customs and culture. The hotel actively participates with the local community in various developmental, educational, conservation and social projects. These opportunities are available for guests.

Facilities:

• 4 acres of grounds and two private beaches on a private peninsula

• 18 fully equipped lake view rooms Outdoor wrap-around terraces
• An overwater deck and boardwalks Reception
• Sitting areas
• 3 Lounges
• Main dining room and fully stocked bar with well stocked regional wine cellar
• Fully equipped media and reading room with direct TV, books, games and DVD´s
• Small jetty or landing dock
• Full spa and indoor pool (coming soon)
• Boutique, located off the Lobby Lounge, offers an eclectic collection of merchandise.

Services

• Two daily outings with a choice of 14 excursion in Peru and 3 excursion into Bolivia Interactive nature, social and conservation programs
• Fully equipped excursion center with kayaks and bicycles
• Private vehicles for land transfers and organized excursions
• Sailboats and row boat to access nearby islands and reef

• Fresh flowers, hotel aroma and candle lit evenings
• Experience concierge service to help organize travel arrangements 24 hour room and laundry service
• Three times per day room service
• Full time nurse, first aid and oxygen available at all times, easy 40-minute access to a local hospital
• Guests may dine in their room, at the main dinning room, on the terraces or picnic style on outings.
• Cuisine is served by butlers offering local ingredient including lake trout, local produce and fusion Andean-contemporary dishes influenced by awarded Peruvian cuisine and Andean spices. The emphasis is on simple wholesome nutritious food to provide energy for the excursions yet light enough considering the high altitude.
• Guests are offered daily specials and a selection of a la carte options. Full breakfast is served from dawn until noon, including local breads, cheese, fruits and egg options. Lunch and appetizers are served from noon until 3pm, and afternoon tea is offered prior to the excursions. Cocktails and dinner are served from 7pm. If the weather permits, a selection of creative light snacks throughout the day. Sundowners served in the lounge, on the beach or at the outings.
• Bar service available throughout the day.
• Spa (to open in late 2011). Encompassing 4 treatment rooms for both, single and couple therapies. The spa will also include a scenic relaxation room, sauna and steam rooms, men’s and women’s changing rooms and a heated in-out infinity-edge pool. One treatment room is currently available offering various massage services.
• Kids Services; as a kid’s friendly lodge, activities and excursions are adequate for children. The staff is trained and accustomed to working with children of various ages and nationalities. Babies under 5 years old are not encouraged. Cribs and Nanny services are available upon request. Full connectivity including International phone service, complimentary wireless internet access as well as cellular phone coverage

In our goal of planning incredible experiences for our clients we wanted to highlight one of Chile’s hidden gems: The Atacama Desert.

For thousands of years, there has been an oasis in the Atacama Desert where travelers have stopped to refresh their mind, body and spirit before continuing on their journey. On this ancient site known as San Pedro de Atacama, Awasi was created, and the noble task of sheltering travelers continues to this day.

As more properties are being built, and expanded, in Atacama – Awasi continues to focus on staying small, in order to provide travelers with the most personalized services to be found anywhere. This focus on ultra-high quality personalized service was definitively recognized

in November 2011 when Awasi became the only lodge in San Pedro de Atacama, and only the second in Chile, to be incorporated as a member of the prestigious Relais & Châteaux, a global fellowship of individually owned and operated luxury hotels and restaurants.

Awasi was built with local material; stone, adobe, wood and thatch. The attention to detail, and authenticity used in the construction of the lodge is further manifested through the experiences it provides travelers. In order to explore the splendors of the Atacama Desert as they wish, when they wish, guests in each of the eight suites are provided their very own 4×4 jeep and expert local guide for the duration of their stay.

Excursions can be done by jeep, on foot, by bike or on horseback without restrictions. There are no pre-set schedules, no limitations, no pre- fabrication – every act is 100% personalized and authentic: lodging, gastronomy and excursions.

Thinking about families, The Awasi Lodge has developed an unique program that combines adventure with education where parents and kids can enjoy and have fun together.

All of the young explorers will receive a personal activity book where they can record all the daily adventures and learnings from the many excursions we have planned for you.

Sandboarding in the desert, getting to know the flora and the fauna or maybe taking a cooking lesson from a Chilean chef are some of the thrilling experiences that you can live with your loved ones as a part of this program.

If you want to know more about this special program please contact us and we’ll arrange this trip for your family.

The exclusive Stella Australlis Cruise is offering a special 30% discount on some highly demanded September dates for passenger who book their trips before June 30th.

Choose between two exciting itineraries that will show you all of the highlights from this incredible place at the end of the world with departures from Punta Arenas in Chile or Ushuaia in Argentina.

To enjoy this special offer all you have to do is contact us an we’ll be happy to arrange this trip for you.